As observed from the earth, the sun appears to move an approx. circular orbit. For the motion of another planet like mercury as observed from the earth, this would

Options

A. be similarly true
B. not be true because the force between the earth and mercury is not inverse square law
C. not be true because the major gravitational force of mercury is due to the sun
D. not be true becase mercury is influence by force other than gravitational forces

Answer

C

Explanation

As observed form the earth, the sun appears to move in an approx. circular orbit. The gravitational force of attraction between the earth and the sun always follows inverse square law. Due to relative motion between the earth and mercury, the orbit of mercury, as observed form the earth will not be approx. circular, since the major gravitational force on mercury is due to the sun.